Mansfield, Ohio – Mayor Tim Theaker is pleased to announce that the National Arbor Day Foundation has named the City of Mansfield a “Tree City USA” for the 26th consecutive year. To receive this award, a community and it’s Shade Tree Commission must demonstrate a commitment to implementing a sound urban forestry policy.
The City of Mansfield Shade Tree Commission has chosen to celebrate our 26 years of being designated as a Tree City USA with a very special Arbor Day Celebration by honoring our First Responders, who have provided exemplary service to our community in the care, health and safety of our residents and their family during the COVID-19 worldwide pandemic.
Shade Tree Commission Chair, Josh Maurer, stated, “The strength, courage, and resilience of our first responders throughout this past year without question exemplifies what we can all learn from trees, and we felt that the Arbor Day Celebration was the perfect time to recognize and honor the impact these responders have made in the lives of our community throughout these difficult times.”
Mayor Theaker added, “The first responders of OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital have worked tireless hours and there are simply no words to express gratitude to our first responders. There are many interpretations of the symbolism of trees including a symbol of immense and enduring strength, protection, security and nurturing, which also describe our first responders. Planting a tree to honor our first responders is a long-lasting tribute to each of them and serves as a gesture of thankfulness and appreciation to each of them.”
The City of Mansfield Shade Tree Commission will be planting an Ivory Silk Lilac at 335 Glessner Avenue at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 30, 2021 along with representatives from OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital.
After the tree planting ceremony, the Mayor and members of the Shade Tree Commission will be recognizing the 2020 Heritage Tree Award winners.
Mayor Theaker invites the community to join the Commission by celebrating Arbor Day 2021 with a tree planting at your home or place of business. For more information, call Kim Hildreth at 419.755.9702.